12 Money-Saving Secrets to Know Before Shopping at H-E-B

When it comes to grocery shopping, everyone in the Lone Star State knows that here, everything's better. ("Here" being H-E-B, that is!) Founded in 1905 and known for its low prices, big sales, and customer service, H-E-B is a Texas institution. The San Antonio-headquartered retailer is more than a place to buy groceries, though. "For Texans, it is a way of life," an anonymous H-E-B employee wrote on Reddit.

So if you find yourself in the great state of Texas—or you're already a frequent H-E-B shopper—here's everything you need to know so you can save some major dough.

1. Buy items featured in those "Combos Locos" promotions. This deal helps customers save money by offering specials on foods and goods when they're purchased together. "Buying a certain box of fish sticks may yield free Kool-Aid and macaroni and cheese, or buying bagged salad may yield a free bottle of dressing," according to Audrey, a Texas contributor for The Krazy Coupon Lady website.

2. Get to know the store layout. The stores are divided into sections, based on product use and quality. For instance, there are multiple sections offering meats and cheeses, based on quality. You'll want to keep this in mind, so you can save where you can—and splurge when you want. "Basically, everything is separated in sections of 'okay' products and 'superior' products," a H-E-B employee going by the handle Bruinsatthegahden wrote on this Reddit thread. In other words, you'll find some cheese products in the dairy section, but even fancier cheese options for parties and wine pairings in the speciality section.

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3. Stock up on craft beer for your parties and get-togethers. If you're looking to save, skip the big-brand options, and got for the H-E-B brand for affordable, unique beers. Customers love H-E-B's craft beer selection, and it's a great ways to offer friends and family a delicious, locally made drink without breaking the bank.

4. If they don't have an item you want, you can request it. If your store doesn't have what you need, they can likely order it for you. "I always tell people to either go to a manager at the checkout area and/or Customer Service Center," Reddit user Bruinsatthegahden wrote. "They will probably give you a card, which they will hand to the grocery or general manager, and they will order the item for you as soon as possible." So don't waste your time and resources running all over town—talk to their employees about the items you need and they'll work with you!

5. Take advantage of the "Buy Ben and Jerry's, get cookie dough free" offer. Keep your eyes open for this famous coupon, which the supermarket is known for.

6. Encourage your kids to earn H-E-B's famous "buddy bucks." Kiddos can participate in this fun in-store activity and receive "bucks" to exchange for prizes.

8. Search for the yellow coupons. H-E-B is known for hiding coupons throughout their store, according to The Krazy Coupon Lady. You can find them affixed to the shelves holding the products, and you can redeem them immediately—and many times you can use them on multiple products.

9. Head to the clearance section (and don't forget to locate the clearance refrigerated section, too!) The items in these sections are usually discounted by 50 to 70 percent already, and what's more, you can use coupons to buy them for even less. "Sometimes even the name-brand refrigerated items (think Kraft cheese, Carl Buddig deli meat, and Oscar Meyer Lunchables) can be picked up for free or nearly free with coupons," says contributor Audrey of The Krazy Coupon Lady.

10. Make time for samples. Yes, you'll get to enjoy some free food, but there's a less-obvious perk here, too, according to the Killeen Daily Herald. Coupons are often offered with the samples in stores, so if you're looking to save even more money, check out those stations while you shop.

11. Pick up the latest copy of the My H-E-B Texas Life magazine in stores.Each issue features more than $40 worth of coupons, plus pages of tasty recipes, cooking tips, and entertaining ideas. It's free, so what do you have to lose?!

12. Stock up on souvenirs and regional foods while you're there. If you're visiting Texas and need gifts to bring back for friends and family, skip the expensive gift shops and airports stores, and head to H-E-B instead. They have tons of Texas food items and state-themed gifts!

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